Business continues as usual – Virtual Will registration systems launched by DIFC Wills Service Centre and Abu Dhabi Judicial Department

The DIFC Wills Service Centre (“WSC’)

From 22^nd March 2020, all Wills will be registered virtually, either by virtual registration (for Property Wills, Business Owners Wills and Financial Assets Wills) or video conferencing (for full wills).

For registration of a full will, the Testator, along with their two witnesses, will be required to join a video conferencing call with a WSC Authorised Officer on the date and time confirmed. The link to join the call will be provided by WSC after the appointment has been booked.

During the video conferencing call, the Testator must have their printed Will in front of them. The Authorised Officer will follow the normal procedure of reviewing the Will with the Testator, at which point the Testator and witnesses will then proceed with their signatures on the printed copy of the Will. The signed Will must then be scanned and emailed to the Service Centre for sealing.

Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (“ADJD”)

The pre-approved Will must be uploaded online already signed by the Testator for the online registration.

An appointment to notarize the Will must be booked and the Testator will be required to join a video conference call with the Notary Public.

During the video conference call, the notary will follow the normal procedure of reviewing the Will with the Testator. After the Will is reviewed, the Testator will receive the notarized Will via mail.

We are strongly encouraging our clients to consider their legacy planning and get in touch with us to prepare their Wills. and get everything ready for peace of mind. Times like these are a good opportunity to take stock, consider loved ones and plan for yours and their future.

Please feel free to get in touch with us to discuss your requirements and available options for registration of wills in Dubai, Abu Dhabi & UAE.

Key Contacts:

Dipali Maldonado
Senior Counsel, Private Client Services
d.maldonado@tamimi.com

Ruksana Ellahi
Senior Associate, Private Client Services
r.ellahi@tamimi.com